How do I fix my Libraries in Windows 7?

[7heBoss]

I am trying to make all my file browsing really organized so that if I ever need to retrieve a file, the process will be as streamlined as possible. However Windows Libraries are making this difficult. When I downloaded the drivers for my computer it adds several files and folders to the "Documents" folder. These will automatically regenerate if I were to delete or move them. This adds clutter to the Folder that I do not want

Shown here:

If I were to remove the folder from the Library and Replace it with a different folder that has all my "real" documents, than the layout changes and now lists data that I don't care about, (Folder Name, Folder Location, Number of Files in Folder, and the path to the empty Public Folder)

Shown here:

Is there any solution? is there a way to get rid of the unnecessary files in the "Documents" library? or can I at least replace the folder with another folder that has all my relevant documents?

 

[xxxdannyxxx]

Hello 7heBoss

This is one of the things that bugs me also. Programs installing items in your personal folders. Anyway, the easiest way to remove these for cosmetic purposes is just to hide them. The folders for your drivers will still be there just hidden from view - http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/394-hidden-files-folders-show-hide.html and this way you don't have to mess around with redirecting folders.

Danny

 

[essenbe]

Also, many programs you can go into settings and change the default location of where their programs are stored.

 

[CreepinJesus]

I think you may need to set a default save location: right-click on the Library and go to Properties, then choose a folder from the list and click "Set save location".

The other thing you can try while you're in the properties dialogue is to select "Documents" from the "Optimize this library for..." drop-down list.

 

[seavixen32]

I have found the easiest way to deal with Libraries is not to use them.

I have a separate partition with two main folders: Personal Data and Downloads.

All my personal data such as documents, digital images and suchlike are pointed to the Personal Data folder and anything I download is always saved in the Downloads folder before I install it.

In this way, I have no fear of losing my personal stuff if ever I have to reinstall Windows or carry out a restore from an image backup.

 

[Imperfect1]

Here's some additional help:

How to organize computer files and folders: 9 file management tips
To include or remove a folder from a library
Customize a library – from Microsoft
How to Add or Remove the Windows 7 Libraries Folder from the Navigation Pane
How to Turn the Library Pane On or Off in Windows 7

PS If you only include one location in each Library, e.g. My Documents would have only 1 location, Documents. When you click My Documents from the Start Menu, Voilà! The Documents folder should open up, nothing else.